“Truly a dream project, the GD-001 symbolizes the beginning of a whole new chapter for G-Shock.”
—Kikuo IbeG-SHOCK is widely recognized as a leader in producing function-first timepieces that can stand up to anything. In recent years, the brand has grown from its strictly utilitarian roots with an emphasis on developing G-SHOCK's more premium segment. These watches build on the tough-as-nails G-SHOCK platform with the use of higher quality materials, finishing techniques that often evoke traditional Japanese craftsmanship, as well as the brand's full suite of top-notch technical specifications.The high-water mark of this segment came five years ago, when G-SHOCK introduced the “Dream Project,” a small run of 35 solid-gold G-Shock watches that carried an MSRP of approximately USD $70,000. However, this year, for G-SHOCK's 40th anniversary, they’ve pushed the limit even further.
The new G-Shock “Dream Project #2” G-D001 is a one-of-a-kind G-Shock crafted from 18k yellow gold with an exterior case designed with the assistance of generative artificial intelligence (AI). Forty years of G-SHOCK data was provided to a custom AI system that generated a three-dimensional model optimized for factors including structural strength, material characteristics, and processing methods.
Designed by AI, the one-of-a-kind “Dream Project #2,” with all proceeds to benefit charity. Through a back-and-forth process with human G-SHOCK designers, the result is the original, organic structure seen here. The unique design offers weight reduction and enhanced shock absorption abilities. The unusual precision-molded construction of the bezel and strap were crafted using a lost-wax casting process most often found in the world of jewelry. The components – all crafted from 18k yellow gold with zero resin buffering – were then hand-polished to achieve a gorgeous luster.
The dial is effectively transparent, revealing a first-of-its-kind movement construction for G-SHOCK.
For the first time ever, G-Shock equips the watch with an effectively transparent dial. Silicon gears and ruby bearings are visible within the brushed metal mainplate. High-efficiency solar cells are placed on the periphery of the dial to power the timekeeping. Need an extra light source? G-SHOCK even built a glowing red ring that can be activated at the press of a button to enable a perpetual internal power source.
While the internal movement modules of these watches may still be quartz, it's quartz that uses the brand's Multi-Band 6 timekeeping to receive signals from atomic radio towers around the world for to-the-second precision. The watch also says goodbye to G-SHOCK's conventional digital displays for a fully analog one using multiple independent handsets for the various complications (including dual time and elapsed time), resulting in an impressive amount of continuous kinetic action on the wrist.
The “Dream Project #2” unique piece is delivered inside a special display box in the shape of a tower with a front cover that can be removed to best highlight the one-of-a-kind wristwatch. The partially openworked box is further decorated with the model numbers of past and present G-SHOCK timepieces. An LED light is housed inside the box, offering indirect lighting to showcase the G-D001 in all its golden glory.
The box that accompanies the “Dream Project #2” is regarded as an art piece in of itself. The present watch, photographed and presented to the public, is a functional prototype. Bidders acknowledge and agree that the Lot received by the buyer will be a new watch that may differ from the prototype available for inspection prior to the Auction.
The final version of the G-D001, customized for the buyer’s location, is expected to be delivered to the buyer during the first quarter of 2024. Bidders agree that Casio is solely responsible for creating the watch and the schedule for completion. If bidders have any questions, they should contact Casio directly.
One hundred percent of proceeds from the sale of this watch will benefit The Nature Conservancy (TNC). Founded in the U.S. in 1951, TNC is a global environmental nonprofit working to create a world where people and nature can thrive. Its mission is to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends and shape a brighter future for people and our planet. To date, TNC has protected more than 119 million acres of land and 5000 river miles worldwide. With conservation programs in more than 70 countries around the world, their programs are dedicated to food and water sustainability, protecting land and water, deploying solutions for climate change, and building healthy cities.
The buyer of this Lot may be entitled to claim a charitable contribution deduction for the hammer price, but such deduction will be limited to the excess of the hammer price paid for the lot over its fair market value. Inaccordance with applicable IRS regulations, Phillips has provided a good faith estimate of the fair market value for each lot which is the mean of the pre-sale estimates relating to that lot. Buyers will have until December 31, 2023, inclusively, to indicate to the Nature Conservancy in an email to jan.mittan@tnc.org expressing their wish to benefit from this charitable contribution deduction. Buyers of all such Lots are advised to discuss their particular tax circumstances with their independent tax advisors to determine whether a charitable contribution deduction is available, including residency eligibility under applicable laws to determine if a charitable deduction for any lot is available in any jurisdiction outside the United States.Manufacturer:
Casio
Year:2023
Reference No:G-SHOCK G-D001
Model Name:G-SHOCK 40th Anniversary Dream Project #2
Material:18K yellow gold
Calibre:Solar powered, radio-controlled quartz
Bracelet/Strap:18K yellow gold bracelet, max overall length 205mm
Clasp/Buckle:18K yellow gold G-SHOCK deployant clasp
Dimensions:45.1mm Diameter
Signed:Case, dial, movement and clasp signed.
Accessories:Accompanied by unique, openworked presentation box.
≌79
Lot offered with No Reserve
Ref. G-SHOCK G-D001
A unique yellow gold, shock-resistant, solar-powered multifunction wristwatch with analog display and radio-controlled precision timekeeping, with proceeds benefitting The Nature Conservancy.
2023
45.1mm Diameter
Case, dial, movement and clasp signed.
Estimate
$70,000 - 140,000 •
CHF61,400-123,000
€63,800-128,000
HK$546,000-1,090,000
S$93,300-187,000
Sold for $400,050
Paul Boutros
Deputy Chairman and Head of Watches, Americas
+1 (212) 940-1293
WatchesNY@Phillips.com
Isabella Proia
Head of Sale, New York
+1 (212) 940 1285
iproia@phillips.com
The New York Watch Auction: NINE
New York Auction 9 - 10 December 2023
21
This lot is no longer available.
125
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139
This lot is no longer available.